Facts About Flash Floods

Flash floods occur as a result of heavy rainfall, rapid snow thaw, city drains overflowing or dam/levee failures. They occur quickly and unexpectedly, within 6 hours of the events that caused them. Here are more facts to give you an idea of how dangerous flash floods can be:

Every region in the United States can be affected by flash floods, especially low-lying areas: near river beds and coastlines.

Cities are more likely to be affected by flash floods due to the predominant impermeable surfaces, such as asphalt, and the lack of natural drainage systems.

The water from flash floods can reach a height of 20 feet, which can severely damage anything in its path.